Anne Frank said, “How wonderful that no one need wait a single moment to improve the world.” This aspiration has been ever present at Berea College, but on September 1st we will be celebrating not only the new school year, but also a campus first. That day will be our first ever Giving Day, as we invite our supporters to help us raise $25,000 in 25 hours* through online giving.
A new school year is always an exciting time on campus. Welcoming a new class of Bereans to our community always reminds us of why these students come. First and foremost they are here because they are outstanding students who have earned their place among the best and brightest. Second, but just as importantly, they are only able to be here because of the generosity of our supporters who have made it possible to provide a high-quality education without charging tuition.
Laurie and I always think especially about what arrival day means for our first-generation college students and their families. As we help the incoming class move in, we encounter their excitement, their pride, their anxiety, all their hopes and fears as they face such an important transition and transformation in their lives. In that situation I am so reassured that our faculty and staff care deeply and have the experience successfully guide them through the life-changing and transformational experience that can only happen here. Berea’s mission isn’t just talk. It’s deeply rooted within the hearts and souls of everyone on campus. This passion and commitment to our mission are the reasons we are celebrating Giving Day.
We have made promises to these students, a high-quality education and an experience of learning through work. While other schools depend on the tuition, Berea runs on commitment, on the support of our friends and alumni, who believe that the education of deserving students should not depend on their ability to pay.
This September 1st, you can help us keep that promise by making a gift online, joining us and the whole community in celebrating another year of Berea’s Great Commitments. Will you help us keep that promise?
To stay updated on our progress during Berea’s first ever Giving Day click here: https://www.berea.edu/give/givingday/
Follow Berea College on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat and stay tuned on September 1st for more information on how you can join in the fun on Berea’s first ever Giving Day.
* OK, a little longer than the typical day